If he does not make the game, who could manager Manuel Pellegrini turn to in central defence? Here MEN Sport considers the options.

Joleon Lescott

The England defender is a natural replacement for Kompany, and as much as anything else he is the only fit central defender Pellegrini has at his disposal if Kompany doesn't make it. Lescott last played on March 22 in the 5-0 rout of Fulham. What might count against the former Everton man is a clash of styles with the Liverpool attack. Lescott is generally more effective against physical opponents and could struggle against quick silver duo Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge.

Drop Javi Garcia back in

The Spaniard is slowly winning round his critics after a mixed start to his Blues career. He is naturally a holding midfielder but has been used at centre-half on occasion this season. Pellegrini likes him and might feel his communication with fellow Spanish-speaking defender Martin Demichelis a factor in his favour.

Defensive reshuffle

Pablo Zabaleta is a hugely experienced defender and Pellegrini could switch him inside and use Micah Richards at right back. In what is sure to be a full-blooded encounter, most City supporters would feel heartened to know Argentinian war horse Zabaleta is in the thick of the action.

Go 3-5-2

A central defensive three of Demichelis, Zabaleta and Gael Clichy, flanked by Aleks Kolarov and James Milner would not have been Pellegrini's first choice against Liverpool, but it could become an option. Milner gives any side he plays in more defensive solidity because of his incredible engine. The big gamble with this formation is the players are not used to it, and under Roberto Mancini came a cropper using it.